How Much Does It Cost to Sell a House in St. Petersburg, FL?
On a median St. Petersburg home priced at $395,000, selling costs typically include: (1) listing-side commission — traditionally 2.5–3% ($9,875–$11,850), or $99 with flat fee MLS; (2) buyer-agent commission — typically 2–2.5% ($7,900–$9,875), paid at closing; (3) Florida title and closing costs — typically 1–2% ($3,950–$7,900); and (4) documentary stamp tax — $0.70 per $100 of sale price ($2,765). Total cost of sale ranges from $13,924 (flat fee MLS + buyer-agent + closing costs) to $29,625 (traditional full-service both sides).
The Biggest Variable: Listing-Side Commission in St. Petersburg
The single largest variable in what you pay to sell a St. Petersburg home is the listing-side commission. Traditional listing agents in Florida charge 2.5–3%, which on a $395,000 home equals $9,875–$11,850. This fee is paid at closing from your proceeds — you never write a check, but it comes directly out of what you keep. Flat fee MLS replaces this with a $99 upfront fee and zero closing fees on Basic and Premium packages.
Buyer-Agent Commission: Still Optional After 2024 NAR Settlement
After the August 2024 NAR settlement, Florida sellers are no longer required to offer buyer-agent compensation on the MLS. However, most St. Petersburg sellers still offer 2–2.5% to attract buyer agents and maximize offers. On a $395,000 home, that's $7,900–$9,875 paid at closing. This cost applies whether you use a traditional agent or flat fee MLS.
Florida Closing Costs for St. Petersburg Sellers
Beyond commissions, Florida sellers typically pay: documentary stamp tax ($0.70 per $100 of sale price — $2,765 on a $395,000 home), title insurance (varies by county — sellers pay in most South Florida counties), settlement/closing fee ($400–$800), and prorated property taxes. Non-commission closing costs typically run $3,950–$7,900 on a $395,000 St. Petersburg home.